Does America need a mascot? Well, the internet is screaming, “Yes.”
His name is Jimothy.
He is a raccoon with short spine syndrome. Which somehow makes him even more adorable — as if raccoons with their tiny hands and little fur masks needed any help being cute.
Add to this list that it’s impossible not to smile when saying his name.
Don’t take my word for it. Google him. Watch a video or two. You won’t regret it.
So why is the Presbyterian Outlook publishing an article about Jimothy? What could a raccoon possibly have to do with God?
First, in a country that feels deeply divided for so many reasons, we need more things that remind us of our shared humanity. The internet doesn’t agree on much these days, but somehow it has collectively decided that Jimothy deserves to be protected at all costs.
Second, Jimothy is defying expectations. Despite his rare spinal condition, he appears to be thriving. It’s hard not to root for the little guy.
And third, joy itself is a spiritual practice.
Jimothy is joy.
He looks like a cartoon character who wandered into real life, with his round little body, impossibly long legs, and unmistakable waddle. Americans can’t seem to get enough of him. His videos have been shared millions of times. Google featured him. He even made an appearance on Netflix’s screensaver. People are getting Jimothy tattoos, and Etsy is full of paintings, sculptures, stickers, and knit dolls celebrating the little guy. Jon Stewart affectionately called Jimothy “a short king.”
Jimothy brings us something surprisingly rare these days: shared delight.
The world is hard. Our faith calls us to engage in the difficult work of justice, reconciliation, compassion and peace. We don’t get to look away from suffering.
But our faith also invites us to rest. To laugh. To delight. To experience joy.
Sometimes we act as though joy is frivolous, something to enjoy after the important work is finished. Scripture tells a different story. Joy isn’t a reward for faithfulness. Joy is part of faithfulness. Joy reminds us what we’re working toward. That’s why Jimothy matters.
Related reading: “Lessons from the viral anglerfish video” by Brendan McLean
Not because a raccoon will heal our divisions or solve our problems. He won’t fix inflation, end wars or calm political tensions.
But in a sea of heavy headlines, Jimothy is refreshingly wholesome. He’s the underdog we can all cheer for together.
One of my favorite videos shows Jimothy’s mother and siblings accommodating his unique body, making space for him as they cuddle together. What could be sweeter than that?
Jesus once told his followers to “consider the birds of the air” (Matthew 6:26). Maybe paying attention to a beloved little raccoon isn’t so different.
Our faith tells us that all of creation bears witness to the goodness of God. Jimothy wasn’t made by mistake. He is wonderfully himself, living the life God gave him with all the joyful determination of a raccoon who refuses to let a crooked spine keep him from climbing, waddling or stealing our hearts.
Jimothy won’t fix everything that’s broken in America.
But perhaps, in his own little way, he reminds us that delight is still possible.
And for that, thanks be to God.
